Plenty of rest in the weeks following a heart attack can significantly aid recovery and lower the risk of a second attack. Research reveals that heart attack survivors naturally experience more deep sleep, suggesting the body’s innate mechanism to heal.
The Science Behind Sleep and Heart Health
A recent study published in Nature found that heart attacks trigger a threefold increase in deep sleep in mice, enhancing their recovery. This phase of sleep helps reduce inflammation, with immune cells called monocytes playing a crucial role.
Interrupted Sleep Slows Recovery
Researchers found that disrupting sleep post-heart attack led to increased inflammation and slower recovery. In humans, those who slept poorly in the weeks after a heart attack were twice as likely to experience another cardiac event.
Why Deep Sleep Matters
According to Dr. Rachel Rowe, deep sleep helps lower heart rate and blood pressure, giving the cardiovascular system much-needed rest. This can accelerate recovery and improve overall heart health.
Tips for Better Sleep After a Heart Attack
Dr. Matthew Pase recommends the following sleep hygiene practices to ensure quality rest:
– Stick to a schedule: Maintain consistent sleep and wake times daily.
– Limit bed activities: Use your bed only for sleep, avoiding work or screen time.
– Wind down before bed: Reduce exposure to bright lights, caffeine, and alcohol in the evening.
– Avoid long naps: Limit daytime sleep to stay refreshed at night.
Conclusion
Prioritizing sleep is essential for heart attack survivors. By adopting good sleep habits, you can promote healing and lower the risk of future cardiac events.